Ramadan has been the Islamic holy month for over a thousand years. Millions of Muslims participate in this month by attending Taraweeh at their local mosques or hosting community Iftars. However, some Muslims do not know the history of Ramadan or why it is so important in Islam. This article will cover the origin of Ramadan and its significance throughout history.
Ramadan’s significance dates back to 610 CE, when the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, received revelations for the first time in the cave of Hira, near Mecca. The Prophet Muhammad would often go to that cave to meditate and reflect. After turning forty, he encountered the angel Gabriel (Islamically, Jibreel) and received a revelation that would be recognized as the first verses of the Quran. These verses are verses 1-5 in chapter 96: Al-Alaq. This occurred during the month of Ramadan; specifically, during the last ten days of it. Many Muslims believe it to have been on the 27th of Ramadan. This night is recognized as Laylat-ul-Qadr, or in English, the Night of Power.
The first Ramadan took place in 624 CE after the Prophet Muhammad migrated to Madinah (622 CE). There were a lot of changes for Muslims after migration (Hijra). The first one was the creation of the Hijri Calendar, the Islamic lunar calendar. The second one was the change of the direction of prayer, or Qibla. After the Hijra, Muslims would face Jerusalem when they prayed. Eventually, Prophet Muhammad received this verse that would command him–and Muslims worldwide–to face the Kaaba in Mecca when praying: “Indeed, We see you ˹O Prophet˺ turning your face towards heaven. Now We will make you turn towards a direction ˹of prayer˺ that will please you. So turn your face towards the Sacred Mosque ˹in Mecca˺—wherever you are, turn your faces towards it. Those who were given the Scripture certainly know this to be the truth from their Lord. And Allah is never unaware of what they do (2:144).”
The third major change after migrating to Madinah was the introduction of Ramadan. While it was a common practice to fast for a few days throughout the year–as the Prophet Muhammad recommended fasting three days a month–Muslims were not used to fasting for thirty continuous days, so it brought about a test of endurance within the community. Furthermore, Muslims would sometimes find themselves at a time of war during Ramadan. Ma’mar ibn Abi Habeebah, from Ibn Al-Musayyab, narrated that Umar Ibn Al-Khattab said: “We fought in two battles along with the Messenger of Allah during Ramadan; the Day of Badr, and the Conquest (of Makkah), so we broke our fast during them (Jami’ at-Tirmidhi 714).” This hadith shows that while fasting was a struggle in certain situations, arrangements were made to preserve the health of those involved.
Although fasting was not mandatory until the first Ramadan, this was not the first time that Allah commanded Muslims to fast. The Quran says: “O believers! Fasting is prescribed for you–as it was for those before you–so perhaps you will become mindful ˹of Allah˺ (2:183).” This verse refers to the people of previous Prophets, who were also commanded to fast. This strongly emphasizes the importance of fasting as Muslims.
Ramadan is a significant month in Islam. Its origins are over a thousand years old, when the Prophet Muhammad received Quranic revelations for the first time. Decades later, it evolved into a mandatory practice for all Muslims worldwide, establishing itself as a holy month that many look forward to each year. Ramadan is both a test of endurance and spirituality within the Muslim community. The historical context of Ramadan highlights its importance in shaping the Islamic religion, and by learning the history, Muslims can further enjoy this holy month.
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